Last night, I decided to not get married…
at least, not until every American citizen has that right.
The National Marriage Boycott is a student driven movement to urge Congress and President Obama to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). If you believe that same-sex couples deserve to be as valued in society as heterosexual couples, you might be interested in participating in the boycott. Particpants sign an online pledge, and you can purchase an equality ring for $10 (plus shipping, if necessary) to symbolize your commitment to true equality. All profits are used to help further the fight for LGBTQ rights.
I chose to sign the pledge because I believe a commitment to equality is more important than the legal recognition I could have access to in a heterosexual relationship. My identity as a member of the LGBTQ community comes first, regardless of the gender of my partner. I recognize that marriage is a privilege, not a right—and I’m proud to be part of the fight to change that.
Tammy Baldwin and Jerrod Nadler have introduced what they call the Respect for Marriage Act, which will repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. Please read the following communication from Fair Wisconsin and consider using their form to ask your congressperson to support this legislation.
________________________________________________________________________
Fair Wisconsin is thrilled to share with you some exciting news from the Equality Federation, the national coalition of state-based LGBT advocacy organizations of which Fair Wisconsin is a proud member. So often we share with you what is happening right here in the Badger State, such as domestic partnership protections, the legal challenge or our local events; however, LGBT advocacy on the national front is just as crucial to securing legal protections for same-sex couples.
This week, our very own Representative Tammy Baldwin, along with Representative Jerrod Nadler of New York, introduced the Respect for Marriage Act in the United States House of Representatives. This bill will repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and ensure that legal marriages of all couples are recognized by the federal government.
Take action! Ask your Representative to cosponsor the Respect for Marriage Act! We need your help to persuade all members of Congress that this bill is critical for families across our country.
Please contact your member of Congress today and ask him or her to cosponsor The Respect for Marriage Act of 2009.
In Fairness,
Katie Belanger
Executive Director, Fair Wisconsin
